Answer: There are multiple factors that impact the commissioning fee, which will be based on the complexity of the building, the phase at which commissioning services are introduced and the scope of equipment and systems to be commissioned. Roughly speaking, commissioning services range between 0.5% and 1.5% of GC per BA, PECI.

Question: Aren’t I already paying for this in construction administration (CA)?

Answer: The CA scope if determined by the A/E contract and is typically very limited and quite different from commissioning activities.

Question: Does the commissioning authority add scope to the A/E or contractor?

Answer: No. The commissioning process and the activities it generates are based solely on the requirements of the construction documents (A/E plans and specifications). Ideally, the construction documents define what roles and responsibilities of each team member (owner, architect, engineer, contractor, commissioning authority). The commissioning requirements and activities should be included in the scope priced by the contractor. If competitively bid, you should see little to no premium for commissioning activities. The goal of commissioning is to not add additional QA/QC or testing efforts to the contractor. The commissioning authority will coordinate with the contractor’s schedule and document the completion of equipment/systems while the contractor is performing internal QA/QC activities. The coordination effort lies in having the commissioning authority onsite when the contractor is performing testing.

Question: Should the commissioning provider be an independent third party?

Answer: SSRCx has commissioned work designed by SSR Inc. with no conflict of interest. We can provide concerned owners with contacts and references attesting to our ability to provide objective, thorough and open documentation on projects designed by our parent company. Our goal is to be the owner’s advocate and be completely objective regarding the completion and functionality of the installed systems. We will not “finger point” on problems but facilitate the resolution of problems with the involved party.

Question: Does commissioning replace construction administration (CA) and job observation requirements?

Answer: No. The engineers of record (EOR) are obligated to perform the CA services according to the A/E contract. The commissioning provider does not do “punchlists,” above-ceiling inspections or final inspections – these activities remain the responsibilities of the EOR.

Question: How does T&B fit in?

Answer: T&B is a resource/instrument used by the commissioning authority to document completion and functionality of the installed systems. T&B is not commissioning; it is only a component. T&B is related to the mechanical discipline only, and provides written reports regarding the balancing of air (supply, return, exhaust) and water flows (chilled, hot, condenser), but does not include the systematic documentation that systems are installed properly and functioning at designed efficiencies.